This Beef Enchilada Casserole combines all your favorite Mexican flavors in one hearty dish. The layers of tender tortillas, spiced beef, beans, and corn are topped with gooey melted cheese, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. The slow-cooking method allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, and the result is a deliciously cheesy, savory casserole that the whole family will love. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, easy, and incredibly tasty. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream for a cool contrast to the spicy flavors.
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 8 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for serving)
Directions:
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In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat with the chopped onion. Drain any excess fat.
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Stir in the taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
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Lightly grease the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer half of the torn tortillas on the bottom, followed by half of the beef mixture. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
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Repeat the layering process, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.
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Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve with sour cream on top (optional).
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4-5 hours | Total Time: 4-5 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why This Recipe Works
One of the best things about Beef Enchilada Casserole is how easy it is to make. By using a slow cooker, you can prepare this dish with minimal effort. All you need to do is brown the ground beef, layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it cook while you go about your day. This makes it the ideal meal for busy people who still want a home-cooked, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
The slow cooking method ensures that all the ingredients meld together, making each bite rich and flavorful. It also allows the flavors to deepen over time, making it perfect for leftovers. The casserole keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can enjoy it for a few days after cooking. Plus, it’s easy to reheat, and the flavors only get better with time.
Nutritional Benefits of Beef Enchilada Casserole
While Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty comfort food, it also offers some nutritional benefits. The ground beef provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. The black beans add fiber, which helps support digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer. The corn offers vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium, while the tomatoes provide antioxidants that help combat inflammation and promote heart health.
In terms of calories, Beef Enchilada Casserole is moderate, with each serving providing enough energy to sustain you through the day. It’s filling, so you don’t need to worry about overeating. However, for those looking to make the dish a bit lighter, there are some easy substitutions you can make. Using lean ground beef or ground turkey, using low-fat cheese, or adding more vegetables can reduce the calorie content while still maintaining the flavor.
Customizing Your Beef Enchilada Casserole
One of the best things about Beef Enchilada Casserole is how easily it can be adapted to fit your preferences. If you prefer a milder version, you can swap out the green chilies for a mild salsa or even omit them altogether. For a spicier kick, add some jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to the beef mixture to amp up the heat.
You can also make this casserole a bit more nutritious by adding more vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would work well in this dish, adding color and nutrients while still maintaining the overall flavor profile. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, consider adding some cooked rice or quinoa between the layers to give it extra bulk and fiber.
For those with dietary restrictions, Beef Enchilada Casserole can also be modified to fit gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb diets. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free corn tortillas. To make it dairy-free, opt for dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives. If you’re looking to make it low-carb, you can use a cauliflower rice base or swap the tortillas with zucchini slices to create a lighter version of this classic casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Enchilada Casserole is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with a few simple sides. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would complement the richness of the casserole and provide a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent meal, serve it with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. You can also offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and fresh cilantro, for added flavor and texture.
For a more festive touch, pair the casserole with a cold drink like iced tea, a margarita, or a cold beer. The richness of the casserole pairs wonderfully with these drinks, balancing out the spiciness and adding a fun element to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While Beef Enchilada Casserole is a simple dish, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making it. One of the biggest mistakes is using the wrong type of tortillas. Be sure to use corn tortillas for the best texture and flavor. Flour tortillas can get too soft and soggy, while corn tortillas hold up better during the slow cooking process.
Another common mistake is overcooking the casserole. While the slow cooker is meant to cook the casserole for several hours, it’s important not to leave it on for too long, as the tortillas can become too mushy and the cheese may burn. Be sure to follow the recommended cooking times to ensure that the casserole is perfectly cooked, with a cheesy top and tender tortillas.
Lastly, don’t forget to season the beef mixture well. While the taco seasoning will provide a lot of flavor, adding a bit of extra salt, pepper, and spices to suit your taste is key to making the casserole as flavorful as possible.
Conclusion
Beef Enchilada Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines savory beef, cheesy goodness, and the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine into one comforting casserole. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a family or hosting a casual dinner, and can be customized to fit various dietary preferences and spice levels. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, this casserole is sure to become a go-to meal in your recipe rotation. The slow-cooked nature of the dish allows all the flavors to come together beautifully, making it a dish that will satisfy everyone’s cravings.
